In 2007, Chrysler LLC formed ENVI, an in-house organization focusing on electric-drive production vehicles and advanced technologies. Led by Lou Rhodes, ENVI debuted five electrified vehicles at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, including the Circuit EV, a Dodge sports car based on the Lotus Europa S. Similar to Tesla’s approach with the Lotus Elise chassis, the Circuit EV featured a lithium-ion battery pack and a 200 kW electric motor. An updated version debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, boasting Dodge-styled fascias and MyGIG infotainment. Dodge claimed the Circuit EV offered an environmentally friendly and fun-to-drive experience. Inside, it resembled the Lotus Europa S but featured premium leather and convenience features. Performance details were scarce, with Dodge suggesting a sub-4-second 0 to 60 mph time and drag race comparisons with the Dodge Challenger SRT-8. Charging took 8 hours on a standard outlet or 4 hours on a 240-volt outlet, with a range of 150 to 200 miles. Despite plans for production in 2010, the economic downturn in 2009 led to ENVI’s dissolution by FIAT, ending the Circuit EV project. Reflecting on the EV’s of today, we can’t help but wonder what could’ve been if not for the economic downturn of 2009.
Photo credit: Robert S. Miller | MoparInsiders.com
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No one wanted it then, same as today